What Is 6063-T5 Aluminum
6063-T5 aluminum alloy is widely valued for its excellent machinability, high corrosion resistance, and lightweight characteristics. The T5 temper is achieved through controlled thermal aging after extrusion, providing a balanced combination of strength and hardness. The composition is silicon 0.20 to 0.60 percent and magnesium 0.45 to 0.90 percent with tight impurity limits, and the alloy has a density of 2.70 g per cubic centimeter, a melting point of about 616 degrees C, and a modulus of elasticity of 69 GPa.
Weldability and Formability
With proper welding techniques, 6063-T5 demonstrates very good weldability, enabling wide use in construction and industrial manufacturing. Compared with the T6 temper, the slightly lower hardness of the T5 condition can make welding easier in certain applications. The alloy has excellent bending and forming capability, maintaining high plasticity during shaping operations and adapting easily to complex design requirements without cracking or distortion.
Corrosion Resistance and Durability
One of the key advantages of 6063-T5 is its high resistance to corrosion, particularly in outdoor environments and marine atmospheres, significantly extending the service life of exposed structures. The alloy also performs reliably in vibration environments, making it suitable for automotive and transportation applications.
Machinability and Anodizing
6063-T5 offers outstanding machinability for efficient cutting, drilling, and shaping with excellent dimensional accuracy. Its naturally smooth surface makes it highly suitable for anodizing, producing attractive appearances while further enhancing corrosion resistance. Typical mechanical properties are a proof strength of 145 MPa, tensile strength of 186 MPa, and elongation of 12 percent.
Advantages and Limitations
Advantages are excellent machinability, very good corrosion resistance, suitability for anodizing, good weldability, and strong bending performance. Limitations are lower hardness and strength compared with the T6 temper and unsuitability for heavily loaded structural applications. The alloy remains ideal where general performance, aesthetic quality, and long-term durability matter more than maximum load-bearing strength.
Standards and Applications
The alloy complies with AMS QQ-A-200/9, ASTM B221, ASTM B429, UNS A96063, and DIN AlMgSi0.5. Typical applications include construction systems such as doors, windows, and curtain walls; staircases, radiator systems, and assembly components; and pneumatic components and extrusion-based systems. Stock forms include round and flat bars, tubes, and customized profiles.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What is the difference between T5 and T6?
A: T5 is aged after extrusion without solution treatment; T6 includes solution treatment for higher strength.
Q: What is the tensile strength of 6063-T5?
A: About 186 MPa with a proof strength of 145 MPa.
Q: Can 6063-T5 be anodized?
A: Yes, its smooth surface anodizes exceptionally well.
Q: Is 6063-T5 weldable?
A: Yes, with proper techniques, and easier than T6 in some cases.
Q: What is the composition?
A: Silicon 0.20-0.60 percent and magnesium 0.45-0.90 percent.
Q: Where is 6063-T5 used?
A: Architectural frames, staircases, radiators, and pneumatic components.
For 6063-T5 bar, tube, and profile quotations, contact our sales team.